ACER CoE - Post Doctoral Fellowship: Development of a 'Battery Management System' for Lithium-Ion Batteries (11834)

About UM6P :

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University is an institution dedicated to research and innovation in Africa and aims to position itself among world-renowned universities in its fields
The University is engaged in economic and human development and puts research and innovation at the forefront of African development. A mechanism that enables it to consolidate Morocco's frontline position in these fields, in a unique partnership-based approach and boosting skills training relevant for the future of Africa.
Located in the municipality of Benguerir, in the very heart of the Green City, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University aspires to leave its mark nationally, continentally, and globally. 

About ACER CoE:

The centre has been recently created to address enduring process challenges in Chemistry and Engineering disciplines and create an environment for interdisciplinary research. The research program of ACER is multidisciplinary, with faculty members from backgrounds in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, and Environmental Engineering focusing on different research fields such as catalysis, separation, energy generation, conversion and storage, and organic optoelectronics intelligent and advanced polymers and materials.

Project description:

The Lithium-ion battery comprises multiple individual units known as "cells." Any deterioration or degradation in a single cell directly impacts the battery's overall performance and lifespan. Therefore, it is crucial to have a monitoring system in place for close oversight of this critical component.

The battery management system (BMS) unit is not just a component, but a crucial element tasked with monitoring each cell of the battery and running algorithms to calculate state of charge (SoC), overall health, and more. For instance, in electric vehicles, the BMS carries out functions such as monitoring, controlling, optimizing, and ensuring safety to mitigate potential hazards related to battery performance. Its role is pivotal in the overall performance and safety of the vehicle, underscoring the importance of our work in this field.

Various algorithms, models, and signals control different components of the BMS in lithium-ion batteries, including sensors, actuators, and controllers. In our facility, we are establishing a research unit focused on developing the necessary hardware and software components of a BMS to keep pace with the advancements in lithium-ion battery technology. 

Candidate Profile: 

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• An in-depth expertise in batteries and renewable energy systems including fault detection, diagnosis, and performance improvement methods.
• Mastery of dynamic reconfiguration approaches.
• Mastery of power converters.
• Mastery of software tools including MATLAB, PSIM, Proteus, LabVIEW, SketchUp, SolidWorks, etc.
• Knowledge of microcontrollers, STM32, FPGAs, etc.
• Knowledge of communication protocols such as I2C, SPI, Profibus, Modbus, CAN, MQTT, and HTTP.
• Knowledge of the ROS environment.
• Undertake original research of international excellence.
• Engage in innovative international research of outstanding quality.
• Prepare papers for indexed journal publications, propose invention patents, and/or actively participate in sharing results at national and international conferences, workshops, and meetings.
• Communicating the development, progress, and results of research tasks to the research project team to identify the requirements for future activities.
• Develop collaborative links with the core scientific staff in related program areas to gain exposure and build knowledge on experimental/research activities and approaches and improve conceptual development and implementation.
• Participate actively in the drafting of research project proposals and the pursuit of funding opportunities.
• Supporting the purchase of appropriate equipment and managing relationships with international suppliers.
• Actively participate in supervising PhD students, guiding them through their research projects.
• Participate in national and international events related to the theme.
• Management of research projects.

Candidature Submission:

Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter outlining research experience and achievements and stating research interests.
• Curriculum Vitae with a list of publications.
• Three references who are not UM6P faculty.
• One reference letter.